Honored by Forbes: Defining Community Banking for the Modern Era

May 15, 2026

Presidential Bank is honored to be featured by Forbes and Fortune magazines for our dedicated work within the Washington, D.C. metropolitan community.

While "community" is a term used frequently by consumer-facing businesses, Presidential Bank was founded on a distinct premise: true community banking means meeting clients exactly where they are-whether that is in person at our local branches or online from anywhere in the country.

A History of Meeting Clients Where They Are

In the mid-1990s, the concept of virtual access was entirely unheard of in retail finance. Presidential Bank took a historic leap, launching the nation's very first online banking system. This innovation guided our simple expectation that if customers were going to bank from a distance, the experience had to be dependable, ensuring our clients could maintain a financial relationship regardless of shifts in their careers or zip codes.

Today, we continue to meet clients where they are, but the definition of community banking has expanded. True service now requires offering tangible financial advantages that businesses and consumers simply cannot find anywhere else.

"Community Banking is not a location. It is a guiding principle of how Presidential Bank approaches serving its customers."
- Steven Reynolds, SVP of Consumer Banking and Lending

Value Driven by Principles, Not Fees

This philosophy drives our consumer rates, our lending strategies, and our commitment to maintaining consistently attractive yields. As highlighted in the feature, Presidential Bank takes a different approach to growth. Instead of relying on short-term promotions, introductory incentives, or layers of account fees to drive revenue, we focus on straightforward accounts, competitive yields, and clear terms.

Our revenue is driven by thoughtful consumer and commercial lending across different markets. This allows us to lend nationally while staying balanced, ensuring that our depositors remain the primary beneficiaries of the banking relationship.

Stability for Lives in Motion

With 10 branches rooted firmly across the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including Maryland and northern Virginia, Presidential Bank remains independently run. In an industry where many banks are built to be sold, we remain focused on steady, long-term growth rather than exit strategies.

Our stability shows up over time in who stays: customers who remain through relocations, career shifts, and major life events, often continuing their relationship into the next generation. As our team reminds us, the right banking relationship shouldn't end when your address changes. It should be built to move with you.